Biden-Harris Administration Protects Consumers from Low-Quality Coverage by Limiting “Junk” Health Plans – HHS.gov

In a significant move to safeguard consumers and promote fairness in the healthcare industry, the Biden-Harris Administration, through the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), has announced new regulations limiting the sale of "junk" health insurance plans. These policies, which often provide minimal coverage or exclude essential benefits such as prescription drugs, maternity care, and mental health services, have historically preyed upon vulnerable populations who cannot afford comprehensive coverage. The new rules, effective immediately, prohibit short-term, limited-duration plans from being renewed indefinitely and require that these policies cover the ten essential health benefits mandated by the Affordable Care Act. Additionally, the regulations prevent the sale of short-term plans to individuals with pre-existing conditions. These actions aim to protect consumers and ensure they have access to affordable, quality coverage, ultimately leading to a more stable and equitable healthcare marketplace.